Sludge Underground Podcast

EP316: We're chopping it up with We Kill Cowboys' frontwoman, Alex Muller this week. We're touching on her band and their upcoming EP called The Rage, their experience working with a label (Mongrel Records), what the Cape Town music scene could improve on, figuring out social media as artists, getting consistent streams, and more.

Check out their latest single 'Earth Demon' here

Website
https://www.sludgeunderground.com

Merch
https://casualsex.store/pages/all-artist-stores/sludge-underground

Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/sludgeunderground

TikTok
https://www.tiktok.com/@sludgeunderground

YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxyLW9b_W81ETvby7J4wmwA

Twitter
https://twitter.com/Sludge031

Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/SludgeUnderground

EP315: Marcel has a chat with Lyricist, Producer, and conceptualist, Stephen Gawking about his journey into making music.  

Website
https://www.sludgeunderground.com

Merch
https://casualsex.store/pages/all-artist-stores/sludge-underground

Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/sludgeunderground

TikTok
https://www.tiktok.com/@sludgeunderground

YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxyLW9b_W81ETvby7J4wmwA

Twitter
https://twitter.com/Sludge031

Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/SludgeUnderground

EP314: From the welcoming arms of Durban, South Africa, we were thrilled to sit down with the first lady of Durban Hip-Hop, Lex LaFoy. We kicked off the session reflecting on Lex’s intriguing childhood, growing up with a pastor grandfather and a mother with a deep love for Hip-Hop. Her early exposure to this contrasting mix of influences laid the groundwork for her unique artistic persona. As she recounts dancing and rapping to Lauryn Hill and Jay-Z, you can't help but admire her journey from an eager spectator to a transformative creator in the world of hip-hop.

There's no denying the monumental role Hip-Hop has played in shaping cultural narratives globally. Lex gave us an insider's perspective, drawing from her experiences in Durban's local Hip-Hop scene. Monthly Hip-Hop sessions and her time with the rap crew, Red Hillers, were instrumental in honing her understanding of the cultural backbone of the genre. Each anecdote from this phase echoed Lex’s deep-rooted passion for music and the sense of belonging she found in the Hip-Hop community.

It wouldn't be a complete conversation without an exploration of Lex’s personal music trajectory. From her initial steps in 2012 to the release of Lexicon 2.0, Lex candidly discussed the peaks and valleys of her music career. The transition from her old persona, Lexicon, to the new, commercially appealing, Lex LaFoy is a testament to her resilience and dedication. She also expresses her gratitude for her family, her community in Durban, and the support she's received along her journey. You can't miss this insightful and inspiring conversation with Lex LaFoy which serves as a true testament to the power of music and resilience.

Website
https://www.sludgeunderground.com

Merch
https://casualsex.store/pages/all-artist-stores/sludge-underground

Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/sludgeunderground

TikTok
https://www.tiktok.com/@sludgeunderground

YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxyLW9b_W81ETvby7J4wmwA

Twitter
https://twitter.com/Sludge031

Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/SludgeUnderground

EP313: Meet Aphi Tenza, a Durban artist that Marcel stumbled into. Join in as she talks about the move to New York, her beginnings in music, and managing expectations of a large social media audience.

Her Music:
https://open.spotify.com/artist/2rflLAMeq3JIO70e6D4ldg  

Website
https://www.sludgeunderground.com

Merch
https://casualsex.store/pages/all-artist-stores/sludge-underground

Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/sludgeunderground

TikTok
https://www.tiktok.com/@sludgeunderground

YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxyLW9b_W81ETvby7J4wmwA

Twitter
https://twitter.com/Sludge031

Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/SludgeUnderground

EP312: Has your playlist hit a stale patch? What if you could discover an unsigned band with a unique sound that's garnering thousands of streams? Join us in a candid chat with UK band, Paint Me in Colour. We're pulling back the curtain on their journey, starting with their impressive streaming stats, followed by their surprising insights on how online success doesn't necessarily equate to a live audience. We'll laugh, cringe, and learn as they share the best and worst feedback they've received, laying bare how criticism can be transformed into a catalyst for growth. We'll then traverse into the nitty-gritty aspects of making it in the music industry as an independent band. Paint Me in Colour unpacks the dynamics of band chemistry and the importance of a professional manager, along with the art of handling unresponsive crowds. 

Website
https://www.sludgeunderground.com

Merch
https://casualsex.store/pages/all-artist-stores/sludge-underground

Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/sludgeunderground

TikTok
https://www.tiktok.com/@sludgeunderground

YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxyLW9b_W81ETvby7J4wmwA

Twitter
https://twitter.com/Sludge031

Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/SludgeUnderground

EP311: Marcel has a chat with one of the newest bands to join the Durban scene. From humble origins to discovering their sound the Punk rock lads are here to make a statement and do it loud. 

Be sure to listen to their debut single dropping on the 15th of sept. 

Website
https://www.sludgeunderground.com

Merch
https://casualsex.store/pages/all-artist-stores/sludge-underground

Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/sludgeunderground

TikTok
https://www.tiktok.com/@sludgeunderground

YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxyLW9b_W81ETvby7J4wmwA

Twitter
https://twitter.com/Sludge031

Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/SludgeUnderground

EP310: Nicola touches on parting ways with her label, having to take down her music on all DSP’s, being a solo artist, investing in her own sound, being a music teacher and more 

Website
https://www.sludgeunderground.com

Merch
https://casualsex.store/pages/all-artist-stores/sludge-underground

Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/sludgeunderground

TikTok
https://www.tiktok.com/@sludgeunderground

YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxyLW9b_W81ETvby7J4wmwA

Twitter
https://twitter.com/Sludge031

Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/SludgeUnderground

EP309: Marcel has a chat with heavyweights Enter Shikari on their long awaited return to South Africa, Join in as we chat about some of the bands history, The struggles of being a live driven band during Covid, and some Local recommendations. 

Listen Here: 
https://open.spotify.com/artist/31jvzuB4ikftPQZJwrYfCF

Youtube:
https://www.youtube.com/@EnterShikariOfficial

Website
https://www.sludgeunderground.com

Merch
https://casualsex.store/pages/all-artist-stores/sludge-underground

Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/sludgeunderground

TikTok
https://www.tiktok.com/@sludgeunderground

YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxyLW9b_W81ETvby7J4wmwA

Twitter
https://twitter.com/Sludge031

Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/SludgeUnderground

EP308: This inspiring conversation with Sonder the Africanime, a successful independent artist and graphic designer, brings to light a unique perspective on music, art, and identity. Thriving in the realm of music, not through streaming numbers but by creating impactful and meaningful compositions, Sonder's journey is both enlightening and thought-provoking. We discuss their venture into marketing and the importance it has in amplifying an artist's reach.

As a non-binary artist, Sonder brings forth a nuanced discussion on the challenges, experiences, and significance of self-promotion and understanding one's target audience. With a focus on consistency and persistence, we shed light on the role of gender identity and the educational aspect attached to it. The conversation also emphasizes the adaptation of the English language to include non-binary people, highlighting the importance of the group pronouns "they/them".

Our dialogue further delves into their collaborations, inspirations with wolffisdead, 2ka, mxmnt and witney.  and the personal significance of Sonder's songs 'Blind' and 'Agony'. With a special mention of their love for anime and its soundtracks like that of Adventure Time and Steven Universe, we delve into the depth and complexity of the creative process behind their music. Join us on this enlightening journey through Sonder the Africanime's artistic world, exploring their passion for music, collaborations, and the powerful narratives intertwined within.

[00:00:10] Create music, market, relate to audience.
[00:08:39] Non-binary artist: Freedom, Education, Expression, Responsibility
[00:17:43] Finding collaborators with mutual respect.
[00:26:05] Collaborating with diverse artists: learn.
[00:34:51]  by your side, I'll be your friend, I'll be your friend.

Website
https://www.sludgeunderground.com

Merch
https://casualsex.store/pages/all-artist-stores/sludge-underground

Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/sludgeunderground

TikTok
https://www.tiktok.com/@sludgeunderground

YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxyLW9b_W81ETvby7J4wmwA

Twitter
https://twitter.com/Sludge031

Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/SludgeUnderground

Marcel had the chance to catch Robin from The Ocean before their First show in South Africa for Ramfest. Join in as the prog heavy hitters talk about their tour and experiences as a band with 20+ years of experience.  

Listen to their music:
https://open.spotify.com/artist/6fuALtryzj4cq7vkglKLxq

YouTube: 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=spaYcNCuHqQ

Website
https://www.sludgeunderground.com

Merch
https://casualsex.store/pages/all-artist-stores/sludge-underground

Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/sludgeunderground

TikTok
https://www.tiktok.com/@sludgeunderground

YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxyLW9b_W81ETvby7J4wmwA

Twitter
https://twitter.com/Sludge031

Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/SludgeUnderground

EP306: Join us on a melodious trip as we sit with the enchanting Alanna Joy, affectionately known as the Queen of the Misfits. Be privy to the whimsical tale of how a milkshake and rainbow biscuits became instrumental in gathering her band, Lost//Youth, together. Alanna Joy spills the beans on how she and her guitarist hit the perfect chord and how she almost had her cousin slapping bass for them. The conversation resonates with the unique camaraderie within the band and a shared passion for music.

As the conversation deepens, we meander towards the delicate equilibrium between live performances and music recording. Witness how a global crisis stirred up their approach, pushing them towards building a more robust digital presence. Alanna Joy shares her favorite venues in the vibrant South African music scene and her bubbling anticipation for Lost//Youth's upcoming single, "Stray". Hold on to your headphones as we embark on an immersive journey through Alanna's universe of music, overflowing with sheer creativity and undying enthusiasm.

(00:00:03) Making music with Lost//Youth
(00:04:38) Milkshakes and Rainbow biscuits
(00:11:04) Finding balance between gigs and recording
(00:16:48) Music Making, gigs, experiences
(00:22:55) Creating hopeful music post-COVID.

Website
https://www.sludgeunderground.com

Merch
https://casualsex.store/pages/all-artist-stores/sludge-underground

Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/sludgeunderground

TikTok
https://www.tiktok.com/@sludgeunderground

YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxyLW9b_W81ETvby7J4wmwA

Twitter
https://twitter.com/Sludge031

Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/SludgeUnderground

EP305: Join in as the 3's and 7's boys make their second appearance on Sludge Underground! Talking about the journey of releasing music, dealing with an overseas member and their first tour! 

Listen to 3’s And 7’s here:
https://open.spotify.com/artist/1kVg5h8vTlaeO6BG4Tpf5H

Website
https://www.sludgeunderground.com

Merch
https://casualsex.store/pages/all-artist-stores/sludge-underground

Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/sludgeunderground

TikTok
https://www.tiktok.com/@sludgeunderground

YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxyLW9b_W81ETvby7J4wmwA

Twitter
https://twitter.com/Sludge031

Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/SludgeUnderground

EP304: Local legends and veterans of the SA music scene are back in full force! Join in as they chat about reconnecting with their Audience, signing with Just Music and chat about the history of the band up until this point. 

https://open.spotify.com/track/67nacmEwDyw7AQTotoI80M

Website
https://www.sludgeunderground.com

Merch
https://casualsex.store/pages/all-artist-stores/sludge-underground

Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/sludgeunderground

TikTok
https://www.tiktok.com/@sludgeunderground

YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxyLW9b_W81ETvby7J4wmwA

Twitter
https://twitter.com/Sludge031

Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/SludgeUnderground

EP303: Cue the applause! We have kyabo, a contemporary songwriter who uniquely fuses pop with other genres, sharing their journey with us on the podcast. Known for their debut album 'EGO', this episode unveils the experiences that have shaped kyabo's music and how these influences are reflected in their songs. Get ready to be engrossed as we decipher the creative process behind 'WINGS', an intriguing track that marries frustration with hope, and the empowering line 'I'm more than I ever could be'.

Continuing our discussion, kyabo guides us through their songwriting process. It's fascinating to learn how they transform a mere 30-40 second interlude into a full-fledged song. Hear about their teenage years spearheaded by their risqué-themed song 'faking it', written when they were just 15, and the significant role their supportive parents played throughout their musical journey. kyabo also candidly shares the trials and triumphs of being an alternative artist in South Africa, and the patience required to succeed in the music industry.

As we near the end of our conversation, we delve into kyabo's personal journey creating music. Listen to them share their gratitude for their supporters. Don't forget to follow Kyabo on social media here: https://linktr.ee/kyabo to stay connected with their artistic journey.

Hit the play button, and join us for an inspiring episode that's a testament to Kyabo's creativity, resilience and passion for music.

(0:00:11) - kyabo’s Influences and Song Creation Process
(0:12:29) - Creative Process and Changing Content
(0:17:12) - South African Artist Challenges and Successes
(0:27:37) - Artist's Gratitude and Social Media Handles

Website
https://www.sludgeunderground.com

Merch
https://casualsex.store/pages/all-artist-stores/sludge-underground

Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/sludgeunderground

TikTok
https://www.tiktok.com/@sludgeunderground

YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxyLW9b_W81ETvby7J4wmwA

Twitter
https://twitter.com/Sludge031

Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/SludgeUnderground

EP302: Marcel has a chat with the Haze brothers on the trials and tribulations of artists on tour, keeping a level head, and taking any shots you can get. 

Find Gareth's Debut single:
https://open.spotify.com/track/2hvrd8KM3a9NwuF20DWu61

Marks Music:
https://open.spotify.com/artist/6f10Qwvg9bkTGVMRKLF1tO

Website
https://www.sludgeunderground.com

Merch
https://casualsex.store/pages/all-artist-stores/sludge-underground

Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/sludgeunderground

TikTok
https://www.tiktok.com/@sludgeunderground

YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxyLW9b_W81ETvby7J4wmwA

Twitter
https://twitter.com/Sludge031

Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/SludgeUnderground

EP301:  On this episode of Sludge Underground, Nasiphi Zwane and Don Calya discuss the importance of creating one's own sound and how to make it stand out in the music industry. They also talk about the differences between South Africa and Australia and how they can both be beneficial for an artist's career. They also discuss the struggles of being an artist in both countries and how to make the most of the opportunities available.

They then take a detour into the fascinating journey of Don Calya herself. Her name, her South African heritage, and her latest collaboration with Maximm all weave the tapestry of her unique sound. They also acknowledge the potent influence the likes of Lucas Raps, Blxckie and other KZN artists bring to the table and their remarkable feats of breaking into the international music scene. 

As they transition towards the end of their conversation, they delve into the hard truths of the music industry. The importance of understanding contracts and maintaining independence are at the forefront. The tales they share of artists who learned the hard way underline the importance of treating your career as a business. The power of social media as a tool for connection and pursuing dreams is also emphasized. This conversation serves as both a cautionary tale and a beacon of hope for aspiring artists. So, tune in and let's learn together.

(0:00:03) - Safe Spaces and Freedom of Speech
(0:03:28) - Don Calya
(0:14:57) - Comparing Music Scenes
(0:24:04) - Desire ft Maximm
(0:33:01) - Building a Music Career Across Cultures
(0:43:11) - Contracts and Independence in Music Industry
(0:47:35) - Pursuing Dreams and Building Social Media

Website
https://www.sludgeunderground.com

Merch
https://casualsex.store/pages/all-artist-stores/sludge-underground

Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/sludgeunderground

TikTok
https://www.tiktok.com/@sludgeunderground

YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxyLW9b_W81ETvby7J4wmwA

Twitter
https://twitter.com/Sludge031

Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/SludgeUnderground

Episode 300: In this exciting episode, Umsindo Musiek's Levi Dry & Sqalisu Ngcobo take us through their journey of maintaining a professional and creative partnership for the past three years despite being separated by distance. Listen in as they discuss the importance of communication and respect for each other's ideas, as well as the appreciation of time and understanding that they are both patient and building. They also touch on their individual releases.

We explore their unique approach to creating a new model of music production and collaboration, emphasizing the process of releasing music that resonates with people now and in the future. Join us as we discuss their plans for a collaborative EP release and how the current music environment has influenced their model. 

Finally, we discuss their recent tour, which saw them come together after being apart for years. We share the successes and challenges of the tour, how it brought them closer together, and how collaboration can lead to greater success. We also reflect on the beautiful country of South Africa, its resilience, and how it has influenced their music. Don't miss this inspiring episode filled with insights into their collaborative journey and their love for creating timeless music.

(0:00:11) - Long-Distance Partnership and Individual Releases
(0:06:16) - Making and Releasing Timeless Music
(0:15:02) - Recent Tour
(0:26:31) - Collaborative Shows and Community Building

Website
https://www.sludgeunderground.com

Merch
https://casualsex.store/pages/all-artist-stores/sludge-underground

Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/sludgeunderground

TikTok
https://www.tiktok.com/@sludgeunderground

YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxyLW9b_W81ETvby7J4wmwA

Twitter
https://twitter.com/Sludge031

Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/SludgeUnderground

Episode 299: Join Nasiphi Zwane on this episode of the podcast as he chats with Tsholofelo Mapisa about her personal journey as an artist. Mapisa shares her insights on the music scene in Durban and Johannesburg, discussing the incredible talent and slow pace of growth in Durban, as well as the density of people and tricky discernment in Johannesburg. She also talks about her love for music and how she picked up the guitar at the age of 14, citing Adele as her inspiration

(0:00:11) - Maximizing Profits in the Music Industry
(0:06:52) - Pastor's Child
(0:16:38) - Packaging Yourself and Making Merch
(0:27:20) - Tsholofelo's Gratitude and Farewell

Tsholofelo Mapisa
https://linktr.ee/theonlytsholo

Website
https://www.sludgeunderground.com

Merch
https://casualsex.store/pages/all-artist-stores/sludge-underground

Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/sludgeunderground

TikTok
https://www.tiktok.com/@sludgeunderground

YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxyLW9b_W81ETvby7J4wmwA

Twitter
https://twitter.com/Sludge031

Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/SludgeUnderground

Episode 298: Rap emcee MoPhunk chats about being influenced by private school and Soweto, how he established his record label and gives tips on how to make it as an artist in Johannesburg

MoPhunk
https://linktr.ee/MellowMoPhunk

Website
https://www.sludgeunderground.com

Merch
https://casualsex.store/pages/all-artist-stores/sludge-underground

Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/sludgeunderground

TikTok
https://www.tiktok.com/@sludgeunderground

YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxyLW9b_W81ETvby7J4wmwA

Twitter
https://twitter.com/Sludge031

Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/SludgeUnderground

Episode 297: We’re chatting to Durban's homegrown Slam boys about the bands origins, The state of the music scene, new faces, and more

Website
https://www.sludgeunderground.com

Merch
https://casualsex.store/pages/all-artist-stores/sludge-underground

Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/sludgeunderground

TikTok
https://www.tiktok.com/@sludgeunderground

YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxyLW9b_W81ETvby7J4wmwA

Twitter
https://twitter.com/Sludge031

Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/SludgeUnderground